KORG MS-20 MINI Synthesizer

Main features of KORG MS-20 MINI: Full replica of the analog circuit, created by the same engineers who developed the MS-20: 2VCO/2VCA/2VCF/2EG/1LFO synthesis structure; Low-pass/high-pass filters with self-oscillation and overload; External effects processor (ESP); Incredibly flexible sound creation system; New revival of MS20 with reduced size to 86%; MIDI IN and USB ports; Authentic reproduction of all details of the original instrument, down to the packaging box and user manual; Complete replica of the original analog circuit.

KORG MS-20 MINI - a new birth in a «mini» format! The KORG MS-20 monophonic synthesizer, first introduced in 1978, remains in demand among performers due to its fat and dense sound, powerful analog filter, and flexible sound creation capabilities. To date, the total number of users of the MS-20 synthesizer, KORG MS-20 plugin, and iMS-20 iPad app has reached 300,000 people. Now the sound of the MS-20 is realized in the form of the MS-20 MINI. The same specialists who developed the original MS-20 carefully reproduced the original circuit and placed it in a case that has been reduced to 86% of the original size, while retaining its appearance.

The development team, led by the same engineers who created the MS-20 35 years ago, managed to reproduce the original circuit. In case of the need to replace any component, the developers analyzed each possible option to achieve a sound similar to the original. In fact, the sound of the MS-20 MINI turned out to be even brighter and of higher quality, as it imitates the sound of a completely new unit that has just come off the MS-20 production line, on which the aging effect has not yet taken its toll.

Synthesis structure 2VCO/2VCF/2VCA/2EG/1LFO: MS-20 MINI reproduces the recognizable MS-20 synthesis in the finest details. Two generators with ring modulation and generators with sustain and delay. The VCA generators replicate the original circuit; however, unlike the original, they are less loud.

Cut-off low-pass/high-pass filters with self-oscillation and recognizable overload: One of the most striking features of the MS-20 was its powerful low/high pass filters with resonance. Increasing the resonance caused the filter to self-oscillate, thus turning it into a standalone generator with a recognizable and expressive sound that many call simply unique. Subsequently, a similar scheme was used in the Monotron and Monotribe instruments. Over time, various changes were made to the MS-20 filter design. MS-20 MINI uses the earliest version of the filter, whose sound is recognized as the most «classic» and «radical».

External processing processor (ESP): The ESP processor is a distinctive feature that emphasizes the experimental spirit of the MS-20. It allows the pitch or amplitude of an external signal source to control the synthesizer. For example, you can connect an electric guitar and use the MS-20 MINI as a guitar synthesizer, or by connecting a microphone, obtain a vocal synthesizer.

Incredibly flexible sound shaping system: The patch cable system on the right panel allows for the creation of complex timbres by connecting different modules of the circuit. The possibilities are limited only by the musician's imagination. Various combinations of trigger and modulation inputs/outputs, as well as S&H generator and noise generator, allow for incredibly diverse sounds. By connecting inputs and outputs with patch cables according to the diagram printed on the front panel, even a beginner can easily take advantage of modular synthesis.

Revival of MS20 with reduced size to 86%: The original design of the MS-20 borrowed the «vertical» control panel concept from larger and more expensive modular synthesizers of its time; however, it was distinguished by its compactness, lower price, and ease of use. To make the instrument more convenient, the size of the MS-20 MINI was reduced to 86% of the original MS-20. Despite its more compact size, special attention was paid to more careful reproduction of the design of the knobs and the circuit on the panel.

Every detail of the original reproduced: We aimed to accurately reproduce not only the synthesizer. Even the packaging box fully replicates the original. The package also includes a «classic» MS-20 user manual and a settings card with explanations of the principles of sound creation. Experience the same wonderful feelings from the MS20 that musicians felt when they purchased this instrument back in 1978.

MIDI IN and USB ports: MS-20 Mini is equipped with a MIDI IN port for receiving messages from external sources, as well as a USB-MIDI port for sending and receiving messages. The MS-20 MINI can even be connected to a computer and controlled via a software sequencer.